If you are looking for a place to go to see the fall foliage, then Stowe, Virginia, is a must! Mike and I have been several times over the years (and now with Blake), so I figured it was time to put together a guide for you guys since visiting during the fall is our favorite. Stowe has the perfect blend of outdoor fun with cute, charming shops and great restaurants. Alright, let’s dive into all the details…where to stay, where to eat, and fun things to do! 

When to Go

Stowe, Vermont, is amazing to visit any time of the year, but fall is when it really shines! There is nothing like the fall foliage, especially when it’s at its peak. Though, I will say it can be kind of tricky to predict when that will be. Being just a week early or late can make a big difference. Usually, I would say the best time for foliage is the first two weeks of October. You can actually use this fall foliage predictor to help plan your trip. Just in case you are looking for something later in the year, Stowe is also perfect for a fun ski trip during the winter!

Where We Stayed

The Lodge at Spruce Peak is the most popular resort to stay at. The majority of people I know stay here and love it!  However, because we had Denver, we wanted a little more room and chose to stay in a rental.  

We have stayed at a VRBO for the last two trips and LOVED it. It was super clean, and it felt like you were tucked away while still being close to everything. It was even pet-friendly, too! Sadly, the one we love is no longer offered, but we have loved our experience with Airbnb and VRBOs in the past, and they seem to have a bunch of options! So we will probably opt to book our next trip through them, too. 

Where We Ate

Breakfast

Butler’s Pantry: The most popular breakfast place for a reason! One of my favorite breakfasts ever. I am not kidding when I say it’s the best french toast I have ever had!!! I recommend getting there 15 minutes before it opens. There will be a line, but you will get seated right away! If you go after it opens it can definitely be a 1-2 hour wait. 

Black Cap Coffee: One of my favorite coffee shops and their breakfast food is incredible!! The sausage English muffin sandwich is one of my favorites of all time. You have to get the maple latte and maple croissant as well!!

Lunch

Idletyme Brewing Company: This can be a dinner or lunch spot, depending on your schedule. We enjoyed getting their chili and eating it on their patio during the day!!

Dinner

Harrison’s: One of the most popular dinner spots, so definitely get a reservation ahead of time! The hype was worth it, and the vibes were cozy!! I had their steak, and it was incredible.

Prohibition Pig: If you love BBQ, then you absolutely need to go here! This is another place I recommend getting a reservation for. It’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town but worth it!

Edson Hill: This restaurant is known for its views, so it makes the perfect photo op! You will absolutely need a reservation and the food is pricey but so delicious!

Piecasso: Every vacation needs a pizza night and this pizza is our favorite!

The Whip: This place was good but I would try to get into the other restaurants first!!

Things to Do

• Gondola Ride up to Mansfield Summit
• Hike!! (see below)
• Leaf peep along the history Toll Road.
• Ben and Jerry’s Factory
• Drive to Woodstock for the day
• Shop downtown Stowe. 
• Percey Farm Corn maze
• Von Trapp Brewery and Bierhall
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Burtt’s Apple Orchard
• Drive the historic Toll Road through Mansfield in Stowe

Where to Hike

• Stowe Recreationl Path *Family/stroller Friendly! 
• Mt Mansfield Summit 
  • Pet Friendly 
  • This is a more difficult trail, so plan accordingly! Some parts may be harder for a dog to climb, so make sure your dog is in good shape!
  • Another route you can take is either take the trail up to the summit and take the Gondola down OR take the Gondola up and the trail down. Make sure you plan transportation accordingly!
• Pinnacle Trail
• Sterling Pond

Places Nearby

• Woodstock
  • Woodstock Scoops (known for the Maple Cremee)
  • Mon Vert for lunch or coffee!!
  • The famous Middle Covered Bridge (right downtown and easy to walk to)
• Artist Bluff Hike: This is a drive but a great hike if you are traveling around the area. It is in New Hampshire! Get there early to avoid crowds!